abodu
What are the requirements to build ADU in Duarte?
Constructing an ADU in Duarte allows you to expand your living space and create personalized areas like a home office or recreation room. To ensure the success of your ADU project, it is essential to understand Duarte's local regulations and thoroughly evaluate the financial implications of construction. This guide provides detailed insights into Duarte's ADU regulations and important financial considerations, helping you effectively plan and execute your project.
ADU regulations for properties with a single-family home
How many ADUs can you build in Duarte?
In Duarte, it's allowed to build one attached or detached ADU on a residential lot designated for single-family use.
How large can an attached ADU be in Duarte?
Attached ADUs in Duarte can be a maximum of 50% of the existing home's floor area, with a minimum size of 800 square feet. Studio and one-bedroom ADUs are capped at 850 square feet, while those with more than one bedroom can reach up to 1,000 square feet.
How large can a detached ADU be in Duarte?
Detached ADUs in Duarte can be up to 850 square feet for studio and one-bedroom units. Those with more than one bedroom can be a maximum of 1,000 square feet.
Can I build a 2-story ADU in Duarte?
Duarte does not specifically state whether you can build a two-story ADU, but you can place an ADU above a garage.
Is there a minimum size for an ADU?
The minimum size for an ADU in Duarte is 150 square feet.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, existing space can be converted into an ADU in Duarte in single-family homes.
What is the maximum height for an ADU?
For an ADU on a single-family property, the height limits are as follows:
- Attached ADU: It cannot be higher than the existing home or have more stories than the primary dwelling.
- Detached ADU: The height is limited to 16 feet and can only be one story. A two-story detached ADU is allowed if it’s built over a garage that provides off-street parking for at least two vehicles, and the second story can’t be larger than the garage's footprint.
ADU regulations for properties with a multi-family building
How many ADUs does Duarte allow for multifamily properties?
For multifamily properties in Duarte, you can convert spaces into ADUs, up to 25% of the total residential units, with at least one ADU always allowed. You can also build up to two detached ADUs.
How large can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in Duarte?
For multifamily properties, attached ADUs can be a maximum of 50% of the existing building's floor area, with a minimum of 800 square feet. Studio and one-bedroom ADUs are limited to 850 square feet, while those with more than one bedroom can go up to 1,000 square feet.
How large can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in Duarte?
Detached ADUs for multifamily properties have the same size limits as other detached ADUs: 850 square feet for studio and one-bedroom units, and 1,000 square feet for those with more than one bedroom.
Can I stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
No, stacking detached ADUs is not allowed. An ADU can be added above a garage, but not on top of another detached ADU.
Can I attach two ADUs to each other?
No, attaching two ADUs to each other is not allowed. They should only be connected to the primary building.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, you can convert existing space into an ADU, but in multifamily areas, the space should not be designated for living.
What is the maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multi-family building
The height limits for an ADU on a multifamily property are the same as for single-family properties:
- Attached ADU: It cannot be higher than the existing home or have more stories than the primary dwelling.
- Detached ADU: The height is limited to 16 feet and can only be one story. A two-story detached ADU is allowed if it’s built over a garage that provides off-street parking for at least two vehicles, and the second story can’t be larger than the garage's footprint.
What ADU types are allowed to build in Duarte?
Duarte allows the construction of various types of ADUs:
1. Detached ADU: A completely independent structure, separate from the main house.
2. Attached ADU: A unit that is physically connected to the primary residence.
3. Converted ADU: Converting unused spaces like garages, storage rooms, or sheds into a living area with essential features such as a kitchen and bathroom.
You have the option to either construct a new ADU or modify an existing building. Converting areas like garages or sheds often bypass certain restrictions, such as setbacks and height limits, and may include small extensions. However, working with older structures can sometimes reveal hidden issues, which might increase the overall costs.
ADU setbacks from the property lines and other buildings
What are the required setbacks for an ADU in Duarte?
ADUs in Duarte are required to have at least four-foot side and rear setbacks. Regulations for corner or through lots have not been specified by the city.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must have from the existing structures?
Duarte has not set a specific distance requirement for ADUs from other structures. Generally, many cities require a six-foot separation.
Are setbacks required if converting existing structures into ADU?
Duarte hasn't specified setback rules for ADU conversions. In most nearby cities, no setbacks are needed if the ADU is fully within the existing unit or an accessory structure.
Can I build an ADU in the front yard of my house in Duarte?
In Duarte, constructing an ADU in the front yard is acceptable if there isn’t enough room elsewhere on the property to fit a unit of at least 800 square feet. Nonetheless, zoning setback rules should still be observed.
Design requirements for ADU
How many bedrooms can an ADU have?
In Duarte, an ADU typically includes at least 1 bedroom, unless it's designed as a studio unit.
Does an ADU need to have a kitchen?
Yes, an ADU in Duarte requires a full kitchen where you can cook, prepare food, and store items. This is distinct from JADUs, which may have an efficiency kitchen.
Does an ADU require independent utility meters?
No, an ADU in Duarte typically does not require independent utility meters.
What is the minimum ceiling height?
The minimum ceiling height for an ADU in Duarte, according to the California Building Code, is 7 feet.
Find out the maximum ADU size for your property here
The parking requirements for ADU
What is the parking requirement for an ADU in Duarte?
In Duarte, the parking requirement for an ADU is one off-street parking space per unit and should be at least 20 feet in length. However, this requirement is waived if the ADU is within a half mile of public transit, within an existing or proposed primary dwelling or structure, located in a historic district, or if on-street parking permits are required but not available to the ADU occupant. Additionally, no off-street parking is needed if there is a city-approved car-shared parking space within one block of the ADU.
Where can I have a parking space on my property?
While Duarte does not specify the exact location for parking spaces, if an ADU is created by converting or removing a garage, carport, or covered parking structure, there’s no need to replace those spaces as long as the ADU is used lawfully.
How to get permits for your ADU
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Duarte?
The process of securing an ADU permit in Duarte typically spans 105 to 120 days. Once your architectural plans are finalized, they can be submitted for a Plan Check. To streamline the process, consulting with a planner beforehand can help confirm your application is complete.
After submission and fee payment, the city has 8 weeks to review and determine if the application is complete. If no response is given within this timeframe, the permit is considered automatically approved. If revisions are requested, your designer must update and resubmit the plans. Applications should clearly show compliance with ADU requirements, as insufficient details alone are not valid grounds for rejection. The plan check fee for ADU projects in Duarte is approximately $2,945.
Does Duarte require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
Yes, in Duarte, plans for an ADU need to be submitted in person at the Community Development Department counter. Unfortunately, the City doesn't offer an online platform for plan submissions and does not currently accept submissions via email.
Does Duarte require coastal development permits?
No, Duarte does not require coastal development permits.
When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in Duarte?
In Duarte, you will need a licensed architect or engineer to design an ADU if the construction is different from the standard building methods
Cost, financing and market value of ADUs
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Duarte?
Constructing an ADU in Duarte typically costs about $380 per square foot, covering expenses like permits, architectural design, and engineering services. For instance, building a 900-square-foot ADU would generally cost around $390,000, including both soft and hard costs.
Is it profitable to build an ADU in Duarte?
Evaluating the financial viability of building an ADU in Duarte involves comparing construction costs with local real estate market values. For example, a 900-square-foot ADU could potentially be valued at around $500,000. With construction costs estimated at $390,000, this suggests a potential return on investment of 27%.
Additionally, profitability considerations may include potential rental income or the benefits of accommodating family members on the same property.
Can you sell an ADU in Duarte?
AB 1033 gives local agencies in California the authority to set rules for selling ADUs and primary homes as condominiums while keeping current ADU development regulations intact.
In Duarte, selling an ADU depends on specific local ordinances. The ADU can be sold if it was built by a qualified nonprofit, if a recorded tenancy in common agreement exists, or if the city permits selling the ADU and the main home as separate condominiums.
Are ADUs rent-controlled in Duarte?
No, ADUs in Duarte are not subject to rent control regulations. They are considered new constructions and are exempt from laws like AB 1482, which allows landlords to raise rents annually. This exemption applies specifically to structures at least 15 years old.
How do I get money to build an ADU in Duarte?
In Duarte, homeowners have the opportunity to access financial support through the CalHFA's ADU grant program, administered by the California Community Economic Development Association (CCEDA). This program offers eligible homeowners grants of up to $40,000 to cover initial expenses related to ADU construction. Additionally, a significant portion of these grants are designed to assist low-income households, ensuring greater financial accessibility.
Find out how much value an ADU could add to your property.
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